skip to main content skip to footer

Improving the Measurement of Civic Learning NAEP LSA

Author(s):
Goodman, Madeline; Weiss, Andrew R.; Sparks, Jesse R.; Dreier, Kelsey
Publication Year:
2023
Source:
Report of the ETS Center for Research on Human Capital and Education
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
70
Subject/Key Words:
Human Capital, Large-Scale Assessments (LSA), US History, Civic Education, National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), Test Development, Interactive Assessment, Grade 8, Literacy

Abstract

This new report advances the discussion of how we understand civic learning and the role large-scale assessments can and should play in this process. The intention is to provide policy makers, educators, and those interested in civic learning with insights into what current large-scale, national data on student outcomes in civics and U.S. history tell us about students' knowledge and skills. In addition, the report explores a body of work that seeks to improve the measurement of core skills and competencies embodied in civic learning by applying advancements in measurement and learning sciences to the domains of civics and U.S. history, and digs deep into how we can better conceptualize and measure civic participatory skills and historical thinking skills alongside core knowledge about our government and history. The underlying message of the report is clear: To strengthen our democracy and civil society, we need to rethink how we educate our children and how we prioritize critical thinking both in and outside of the classroom.

Read More